Understanding Psychology (10th Ed)

Study Alert
The distinction between 
prosocial behavior
and 
altruism
is important. 
Prosocial behavior need 
not have a self-sacrifi cing 
component; altruism, by 
defi nition, contains an 
element of self-sacrifi ce.
altruism 
Helping behavior that is 
benefi cial to others but clearly requires 
self-sacrifi ce.
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Module 55 
Positive and Negative Social Behavior 
613
At one time or another, almost everyone feels angry. The anger may 
result from a frustrating situation, or it may be due to another 
individual’s behavior. The way we deal with anger may determine 
the difference between a promotion and a lost job or a broken 
relationship and one that mends itself. 
Social psychologists who have studied the topic suggest several 
good strategies to deal with anger that maximize the potential for 
positive consequences (Ellis, 2000; Nelson & Finch, 2000). Among 
the most useful strategies are the following:
• Look again at the anger-provoking situation from the perspective of others . By taking 
others’ points of view, you may be able to understand the situation better, and 
with increased understanding you may become more tolerant of the apparent 
shortcomings of others.
• Minimize the importance of the situation . Does it really matter that someone is 
driving too slowly and that you’ll be late to an appointment as a result? Reinter-
pret the situation in a way that is less bothersome.
• Fantasize about getting even—but don’t act on it . Fantasy provides a safety valve. In 
your fantasies, you can yell at that unfair professor all you want and suffer no 
consequences at all. However, don’t spend too much time brooding: Fantasize, 
but then move on.
• Relax . By teaching yourself the relaxation techniques used in systematic 
desensitization (discussed in the module on treatment of psychological 
disorders), you can help reduce your reactions to anger. In turn, your anger 
may dissipate.
No matter which of these strategies you try, above all, don’t ignore your anger. 
People who always try to suppress their anger may experience a variety of consequences, 
such as self-condemnation, frustration, and even physical illness (Burns, Quartana, & 
Bruehl, 2007; Quartana & Burns, 2007; Gardner & Moore, 2008).